Autopsy Reveals Strangulation in Custody Death, Family Challenges Police Account
HOMA BAY — A family in Homa Bay County is demanding a full investigation into the death of 31-year-old fisherman Calvins Omondi Onditi, whose body was found inside a police cell at Kipasi Police Post with a pair of trousers tied around his neck.
A government pathologist concluded that Onditi died of asphyxiation caused by strangulation. The autopsy was conducted at Homa Bay County Referral Hospital and confirmed by County Medical Services Chief Officer Kevin Osuri.
“The cause of death is strangulation. Now it is up to investigators to determine how the trousers ended up around his neck,” Osuri said on Tuesday.
According to the family, Onditi was wearing shorts when police arrested him. His mother, Millicent Akoth, expressed doubt over the official account. “Police should explain how my son ended up with trousers on his neck. He left home in shorts,” she said.
The family also raised questions about the condition in which Onditi was found and whether police followed proper procedures. They claim they were not informed before his body was taken to the mortuary.
Family attorney Albert Ongoso said Onditi had been drunk at the time of arrest and could not have climbed up to hang himself in that state. “It’s hard to believe he tied a knot and hanged himself while intoxicated,” Ongoso said. He also questioned why the body was moved without notifying the family.
A relative, Achieng Achieng, called on the government to take responsibility for the funeral. “He died in police custody. The government should ensure he gets a proper burial,” he said.
Police have not issued a public statement regarding the incident. The Office of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations has not confirmed whether an inquiry has been launched.
The case adds to ongoing public concern about deaths in police custody and the conduct of law enforcement officers in rural areas. The family insists that until thorough, independent investigations are completed, they will not accept the explanation provided.
